WeatherTech floor mats are built to take a beating, but they aren’t magic. Muddy boots, spilled coffee, and winter road salt eventually turn that sleek black finish into a gray, gritty mess. If you are embarrassed to open your car door, it is time for a refresh.
We researched the most effective methods to clean, restore, and protect your liners. Whether you need a quick wash or a full restoration to get them black again, we have you covered.
Here is everything you need to know to make your WeatherTech mats look brand new.
Key Takeaways
- Use the official WeatherTech Cleaning Kit, Chemical Guys Mat Renew, or mild dish soap for safe results.
- Always remove mats from the vehicle before cleaning to prevent interior water damage.
- Scrub with a medium-stiff tire brush to dislodge dirt trapped in the deep grooves.
- Restore faded mats using Solution Finish or a non-slip rubber protectant; avoid silicone-based dressings.
Best Cleaner For WeatherTech Mats
Choosing the right cleaner is half the battle. You need something strong enough to cut through grease and road tar but gentle enough not to degrade the thermoplastic material. Here are the top products to consider.
1. WeatherTech Cleaning Kit
If you want to play it safe, go straight to the source. The WeatherTech Cleaning Kit is a two-step system designed specifically for their liners. It includes a biodegradable foaming cleaner that lifts dirt and grit without harsh chemicals.
The second bottle is a protector that adds a durable, non-slip finish. This is crucial because standard dressings can make rubber mats dangerously slippery. If you want guaranteed compatibility and factory-fresh results, this kit is your best bet.
2. Chemical Guys Mat Renew
Chemical Guys Mat Renew is a favorite among detailing enthusiasts. This spray cleans and restores rubber floor mats in one step. It is excellent for removing caked-on mud and brings back a deep black sheen without that greasy, wet look.
It also contains UV blockers. This prevents your mats from fading or cracking over time, making it a smart investment for long-term maintenance.
3. Dish Soap or Laundry Detergent
You do not always need a specialized product. If you are on a budget, standard household cleaners work wonders. A mild dish soap like Dawn or a gentle laundry detergent breaks down oils and dirt effectively. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving a sticky residue.
4. Tire and Rubber Cleaner
Since WeatherTech mats are similar to tires in durability, automotive rubber cleaners are a great hack. 303 Tire and Rubber Cleaner is a powerhouse option. It foams on contact to dissolve grime and is safe for use on all rubber accessories. This is a versatile choice if you want one bottle that cleans your mats, tires, and mud flaps.
How to Remove WeatherTech Mats
Never clean your mats inside the vehicle. You will inevitably splash dirty water and chemicals onto your carpet or pedals. Take them out first for a proper deep clean.
WeatherTech uses specific retention systems to keep mats in place. Here is how to navigate the three most common clips without breaking them.
How to Remove Button Clips
- Slide your hand under the mat right next to the button clip.
- Press your thumb down firmly on the center of the clip to hold the anchor in place.
- Pull the mat straight up with your fingers until you hear a pop.
- Lift the mat out of the footwell carefully to avoid spilling debris.
How to Remove Twist-Lock Clips
- Locate the twist anchors on the floor.
- Rotate the clips 90 degrees to the “unlock” position.
- Lift the mat gently over the anchors and remove it from the car.
How to Remove Hook Clips
- Locate the hook, usually found near the seat base.
- Lift the bottom edge of the mat slightly to create slack.
- Slide the mat backward (toward the seat) and then up to unhook it.
- Pull the mat out of the vehicle.
How to Clean WeatherTech Mats at Home
You can achieve professional results in your driveway with just a hose and some elbow grease. Follow this step-by-step process to get rid of the grime.
- Time: 20, 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
What You’ll Need
- Stiff-bristle tire brush
- Garden hose or pressure washer
- Cleaner of choice (Soap, Kit, or Degreaser)
- Microfiber towel
1. Shake and Rinse
Start by shaking the mats vigorously to remove loose rocks and sand. Lay them on the driveway and rinse them down. If you have a pressure washer, use it on a lower setting to blast away surface mud.
2. Apply Cleaner and Soak
Spray your chosen cleaner liberally over the entire surface. Ensure you cover the ridges and edges. Let the solution sit for 5 to 10 minutes to break down the dirt, but do not let it dry in the sun.
3. Scrub the Grooves
This is the most important step. Use your tire brush to scrub the mats in circular motions. Focus on the deep grooves where dirt gets trapped. The texture of WeatherTech mats holds onto grime, so a little extra pressure helps.
Pro Tip
If you have stubborn salt stains from winter driving, mix a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water. The acidity dissolves the salt crystals that soap leaves behind.
4. Rinse and Dry
Rinse the mats thoroughly until the water runs clear. Shake off excess water and prop them up vertically against a wall. Let them air dry completely before putting them back in the car to prevent mold or mildew smells.
How to Get WeatherTech Mats Black Again
WeatherTech mats naturally fade to a dull gray over time due to oxidation and UV exposure. Deep cleaning removes dirt, but it won’t restore the color. To get them jet black again, you need to condition the material.
Method 1: Floor Mat Protector
For mild fading, a dedicated floor mat protector works best.
- Time: 15 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
1. Apply the Protector
Once your mats are clean and dry, spray the WeatherTech Protector or a non-slip rubber dressing onto the surface.
2. Spread and Buff
Use a damp sponge or microfiber cloth to spread the product evenly. Wipe away any excess liquid immediately. This conditions the rubber and repels future stains.
Method 2: Solution Finish (For Severe Fading)
If your mats look gray and chalky, you need a restoration product like Solution Finish. This is essentially a dye that penetrates the plastic.
- Time: 20 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
What You’ll Need
- Solution Finish (Black)
- Rubber gloves
- Applicator pad or old towel
1. Apply Solution Finish
Wear gloves, as this product stains skin instantly. Pour a small amount of liquid onto your applicator pad and work it into the plastic.
2. Wipe Off Excess
Let the product penetrate for a minute or two, then buff off the excess with a clean towel.
3. Let It Cure
Allow the mats to dry for at least 4 hours before using them. This prevents the black dye from transferring to your shoes or pant legs.
How Do You Keep WeatherTech Mats Looking New?
Maintenance is easier than restoration. A few simple habits will extend the life of your liners significantly.
- Vacuum often: Grit acts like sandpaper. Vacuuming regularly prevents scratches on the surface.
- Neutralize salt immediately: Road salt is corrosive. If you track salt in, rinse the mats or wipe them with vinegar as soon as possible to prevent permanent staining.
- Avoid harsh degreasers: Industrial degreasers can dry out the rubber, causing it to curl or turn white. Stick to automotive-safe cleaners.
- Don’t use silicone dressings: Never use Armor-All or high-gloss tire shine. These make the mats incredibly slippery, which can cause your foot to slip off the brake pedal.
- Fix curling with heat: If the edges start to curl inward, lay the mats upside down in the warm sun for an hour to reshape them.
FAQs
Are WeatherTech Mats Worth It?
Yes, for most drivers, they are worth the investment. WeatherTech liners are laser-measured to fit specific vehicles, meaning they cover every inch of your carpet. They are made in the USA from a proprietary material called Thermoplastic Elastomer, which is recyclable and odorless. While the upfront cost is high, they preserve your car’s interior condition, which helps maintain a higher resale value.
Can You Use Armor-All on WeatherTech Floor Mats?
No, you should never use Armor-All or similar silicone-based shine products on floor mats. WeatherTech explicitly warns against this because it makes the surface dangerously slippery. This can cause your foot to slide while driving, creating a safety hazard. Always look for “non-slip” or “matte finish” protectors.
Can You Use Simple Green on WeatherTech Floor Mats?
It is not recommended. Simple Green is a strong all-purpose cleaner that can be too harsh for the specific thermoplastic material used by WeatherTech. Extended use may cause the mats to dry out or fade prematurely. It is safer to use a dedicated rubber cleaner or mild dish soap.
Can WeatherTech Mats Be Painted?
Technically yes, but it is not a good idea. Paint does not bond well to the flexible rubber material and will likely crack and flake off quickly. Furthermore, spray painting your mats will void the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. If you want to restore the color, use a restoration product like Solution Finish instead of paint.
How Long Do WeatherTech Mats Last?
WeatherTech mats are designed to last for the life of the vehicle. The company offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser that covers defects in material and workmanship. With proper cleaning and care, they should not crack, curl, or break under normal use.
How Do You Keep WeatherTech Floor Mats From Curling?
Curling usually happens due to shipping or extreme temperature changes. To fix it, lay the mats flat in a warm area or in direct sunlight for a few hours. You can also roll them in the opposite direction of the curl to help relax the material back into its original shape.
Can I Put WeatherTech Mats in the Dishwasher?
No, you should never put WeatherTech mats in the dishwasher. The intense heat during the drying cycle can warp the thermoplastic material, ruining the custom fit. Stick to hand washing with a hose and a brush for the best results.
Why Are My WeatherTech Mats Sticky?
Sticky mats are usually caused by using the wrong cleaning product, such as a heavy degreaser that wasn’t rinsed off completely, or a low-quality dressing. To fix this, scrub the mats thoroughly with warm water and dish soap to strip away the residue, then rinse well.
